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John Muir Way Festival & Events

2014 marks the launch of the John Muir Way, a 130 mile walking and cycling route April 21st overseen by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH). Beginning on the shores of the Clyde at Helensburgh and running across the country to Dunbar, the route covers some of the finest scenery in the central belt. The Way celebrates the life and legacy of Scots-born John Muir, who is widely viewed as the father of the American conservation movement and founder of America’s first National Park. SNH is marking the launch of this route with range of opening celebrations and community events.

As Muir’s understanding of nature was largely inspired by his faith, we are welcoming participation from Eco-Congregations in the central belt in these celebrations.

Opening Celebrations

A ten-day long John Muir Festival (17-26th April) is being co-ordinated by appointed consultants UZ Arts to promote John Muir and the Way through a range of art and creativity events, from ‘guerrilla gardening’ to poetry workshops.

UZ Arts are seeking groups interested in running an activity for the public to form part of the Festival programme. For more information please contact Helen Trew (helen@uzarts.com) – the deadline to submit activity proposals will be the first week in December. Following from the festival will be a six-week programme of community-led events (focusing on the weekends from 28th April – 13th June) to encourage long-term use of the Way and to inspire people.to engage with nature in their local area.

SNH are seeking community groups and congregations who are keen to organise an event to form part of this programme. We are looking to support rebranding of existing events as well as new events to raise awareness of John Muir as well as the Way. Some examples of the kind of event that could be supported are: guided walks, practical conservation tasks, cycling or walking challenges, craft activities, or informal educational activities.

Contact

For more information on how to get involved in these events, please contact either Vhairi Tollan (vhairi.tollan@snh.gov.uk / 0131 3162638) or Catriona Scriven (catriona.scriven@snh.gov.uk / 0141 9510871).